The Nigerian Trade Marks Registry has released two new Journals, thereby opening another statutory opposition window for trade mark owners and applicants. The released journals are as follows:
The Nigerian Trade Marks Registry has released two new Journals, thereby opening another statutory opposition window for trade mark owners and applicants. The released journals are as follows:
-
Trade Marks Journal Volume 1, No. 1 – dated 29 June 2026
-
Trade Marks Journal Volume 1, No. 2 (Online and Pre-IPAS) – dated 30 June 2026
The publication of these Journals marks a critical stage in the registration process of the advertised mark. Every advertised mark is now open to public inspection, allowing proprietors of earlier marks and other interested parties to assess potential conflicts.
Statutory Opposition Period
Under the Trade Marks Act, the publication of these Journals triggers a two-month opposition period from the date of publication. This period is non-extendable.
Trade mark owners should therefore promptly review the advertised applications to identify any conflicting marks as failure to oppose within the statutory timeframe may allow conflicting marks to proceed to registration.
Need for Watch Services
It is important to note that the opposition presents an opportunity for trade mark owners to protect their rights and challenge applications that may infringe, dilute, or otherwise conflict with existing rights.
Without regular monitoring of the Journals, businesses risk allowing conflicting marks to proceed unchecked, making future enforcement more complex, time-consuming, and costly.
For enquiries regarding providing watch services and opposition process in Nigeria, please contact us at [email protected]
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
